2300-Board Meetings As defined by law, an official meeting of the board includes any meeting, assembly or gathering together at any time or place or the simultaneous communication by conference telephone or other electronic means of a majority of the members of a public body for the purpose of conducting hearings, participating in deliberations, or voting upon or otherwise transacting the public business of the public body. However, a social meeting or other informal assembly or gathering together of the members of a public body does not constitute an official meeting unless called or held to evade the spirit and purposes of the open meetings law.
Types of Meetings
While the board is determined to operate efficiently, it also is mindful of the importance of thoughtful planning and discussion prior to taking formal action. Regular meetings will be held at a predetermined time and place to conduct the business of the board. In addition, the board may hold specially-called meetings and emergency meetings as it deems necessary to act in a timely manner and provide its members and executive staff with the opportunity to have an exchange of ideas and receive input from other staff, parents, students and the community.
Regular Meetings
The superintendent will keep on file the schedule of regular meetings with the predetermined time and place. The schedule will be revised only in accordance with legal requirements for notice.
Emergency Meetings
An emergency meeting may be called in order to address generally unexpected circumstances that require immediate consideration by the board. The chairperson, or the vice-chairperson, if the chairperson is unable or unwilling to act, or superintendent shall call an emergency meeting when it is determined that the meeting is necessary.
Specially-Called Meetings
Specially-Called Meetings Generally
Specially-called meetings may be scheduled in between regular meetings of the board. Work sessions, retreats, and public hearings are specific types of specially-called meetings. The board chairperson (or the vice-chairperson, if the chairperson is not available) or the superintendent may call special meetings when necessary to conduct business that cannot reasonably be handled at regular meetings. The board chairperson or superintendent shall call a special meeting if a majority of the members of the board so requests.
Retreats and Workshops
Retreats and workshops are specially-called meetings that may be scheduled in order to give the board more time to deliberate or evaluate issues. Action may be taken at these meetings.
Public Hearings
Public hearings are official proceedings during which members of the public are given an opportunity to be heard. Public hearings may be required by law or deemed advisable by the board. Public hearings that are not required by law may be scheduled when the chairperson or superintendent determines that the public hearing is advisable or when a majority of the members of the board so requests. Notice of all public hearings will be provided as required by law and will include subject, date, place and time of the hearing as well as any rules regarding participation, such as the length of time for each speaker. The purpose of a public hearing is to gather information and hear opinions from the community. Generally, board members will respond only to seek clarification. At the appointed time, the chairperson or designee shall call the hearing to order and preside over it in accordance with any rules regarding participation adopted by the board. When the allotted time expires or when no one wishes to speak, the chairperson or designee shall declare the hearing ended.
Open Meetings Law Compliance
The board will comply with the open meeting law, including notice of meetings.
Legal References: G.S. 115C-41, 143-318.9, -318.10, -318.12, -318.4
Cross References: Compliance with the Open Meetings Law (policy 2320)
Adopted: 2008-05-05
Revised: 2008-09-08; 2017-12-19